The Moonlight Swordsman



THE KINGDOM OF ZULIVAN (Central Kingdom)

Isabella found solace in the grand hall, a sanctuary filled with a vast collection of books that seemed to stretch endlessly.

The place was peaceful, with the echoes of ancient knowledge reverberating off the elaborate walls. There were books of all sizes and shapes on the shelves, and they all held the promise of knowledge and exploration. 

The sheer number of books would have intimidated even the most dedicated reader.

"Have you started to read what I mentioned to you before?" a lady asked.

Without making a sound or casting a shadow, she suddenly appeared behind Isabella. Her long, light green hair cascaded over her shoulders and grazed the small of her back, its ethereal beauty mesmerizing in the mellow light. 

Her flawless porcelain complexion, illuminated by an ethereal glow, glistened like a beautiful jewel and bewitched all who beheld her.

"Yes Madam," Isabella replied. 

She quickly stood up and bowed in respect.

"If you can pass this test, I will bring your mother back to you, just like I promised." She said.

"I will try my best, Madam...."

Isabella wanted to ask something but didn't know how she could. 

"It seems something is in your mind. Don't worry, just ask."

"Thank you, Madam. Is it possible for me to tag along with you in the Interkingdom Tournament?" 

She crossed her fingers behind her back.

"It's that boy again, am I right?" Madam asked, and a smile appeared on her face.

"YE-Nooo, I mean, they are all my friends. I would like to watch them," Isabella replied, with a shy expression.

"You don't have to hide it from me. If you really care for him, you should convince him to join our kingdom before it's too late. 

"I will personally take care of him, and you both will be able to train and become reputable mages in the future."

"I will try my best to convince him madam, but I can't say for sure. I don't know how much he trusts me.

"And I only want him to stay safe and happy," Isabella replied.

"Than that's the more reason for him to come here. What can be more safer than our Kingdom? You don't know when a war might break out between Theordora and Felgura.

"The only thing that is keeping the balance right now is the Felgura 'Aquarian' the Water Saint. The day he dies or goes missing, Theodora will attack with full force."

As Isabella realized the seriousness of the situation, her breath froze in her throat, and a wave of fear swept through her body. 

"That's why he will be more safe here. 

"Our kingdom has no animosity against anyone as we focus on more learning and solving mysteries on the path of becoming great mages.

"And everyone knows what will happen if they go against us,"

"Yes, Madam."

*****

I don't know why, but I feel someone is talking about me,'' Aizel thought.

[That must be that stupid princess]

Aizel couldn't help but feel satisfied as they returned to Jeffrey's house. Their trip to the marketplace had paid off, with Aizel purchasing all the supplies he required. 

Each item had been carefully chosen, and thanks to Jeffrey's generosity and shrewd bargaining, they had managed to secure everything at a significant discount. 

"Man this guy is really useful; if we can make this potion to control him forever without even needing to be closer to him..

[You want to make him your slave, right Matser?]

"No, I only want to make my minion. haha..."

Aizel was occupied in the kitchen, working on food. His hands moved swiftly and precisely as he walked from one side of the counter to the other, slicing and dicing various ingredients.

"I don't mind leaving him alone or sparing his life, but you know he can't be trusted, right?"

[Yes, so that's why you want to bind him forever, so he won't be able to betray you]

"Yes, I have yet to reach Grade III, so I am sure I won't be able to control his mind with my imagination power.

"That can only work on Grade I and normal humans for now." 

[About your Grade III core master, do you think this major upgrade will boost your power very much just like other 'you' said?]

"I mean, it is me. So, I guess it will; that's why I still haven't gained any recognition for myself."

"Who would believe me if I explained something like this to someone?"

"See, I am Aizel. I have locked my power away from myself because I am not worthy of it. What a load of bullshit."

[Fufu, you are really the best master I can hope for]

"You are damn right. I can't wait for you to take form. The duo will be feared by everyone hihihehehaha...

[fufu]

"Here, eat this."

Aizel carefully placed the plates filled with delicious food in front of Jeffrey and the maids. He then joined the rest at the table, plate in hand, ready to enjoy the meal he had cooked.

"Is there a trump card or any mage you are hiding in your HQ here?" Aizel asked, side by side, savoring his meal.

"No, we don't usually need that type of thing. We already have the support of Seafolk race." Jeffrey replied.

"Is there any race that can be considered an enemy or even hate the Seafolk?"

"Yes there is, Whiskerkins."

Does he mean as a cat?" 

[Yes Master]

"Do they both hate each other?"

"Yes, they always fight for lands and many things. But mostly keep that within limits because of the council."

"The Council of the Beast Kingdom?" Aizel asked.

"Yes, there are 9 kings and queens from the races who governed this kingdom. Each from their races."

"Do you know anyone from the Whiskerkins?"

"No, they hate me and others because we are siding with Seafolk," Jeffrey replied.

"What if you betrayed them and lured them into a trap to help Whiskerkins clear some of their enemies? Will they do it?"

"Yes, some of them won't mind getting rid of us."

"Hehe, let's head tomorrow into their territory. We've got a solid plan to cook."

[CATS VS FISHES, fufu this will be interesting]